Mohali: Amid rapid urbanisation, GMADA puts forest promise on back burner

GMADA has not progressed on its planned 118-acre urban forest in Sector 97 since 2015-2017, despite its designation in the 2009 Master Plan as one of the city's two green lungs.

On July 16, the Punjab government issued a declaration under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, to acquire 196.44 acres for GMADA's proposed commercial hub in Sector 87.

The acquisition for the commercial hub spans villages including Manak Majra and Nanu Majra, from which GMADA also needs land for the urban forest, highlighting a contrast in priorities.

In contrast, GMADA has swiftly acquired land for revenue-generating projects like industrial development in Sector 103 and the Aerotropolis township, covering over 3,500 acres.

The Punjab and Haryana high court earlier this year sought GMADA's response in a public interest litigation regarding the urban forest, but no further action has been reported.